Turnips are a brassica and the most common ones are white-skinned.  The globular root protrudes above the dirt and then under the ground extends a tap root.

How to Grow Turnips

As a root crop they are best grown in cooler weather.  They like a crumble rich well worked soil.  Temperate climates mean you can plant in summer for a late Autumn crop.  or If you are wanting greens then plant spring.  You will need to make sure they are watered over drier periods - a bit of frost seems to make them more flavoursome.  Otherwise cold climates can seen them planted in spring .  Seeds can be plant 30-40 cm apart and then thinned out.

Culinary Uses

The globular part of the root can be used in soups, mashed with potatoes or chopped into stews.  The leaves are also used and more commonly known as turnip tops or turnip greens.  They are similar to mustard greens. Baby Turnips is another variety of turnip and these can be eaten whole with leaves attached.  The can be used in salads as an alternative to radishes.